Which of the following is NOT a part of the definition of a town as per the Census of India?

The Correct answer is More than 75% of the population engaged in primary sector.

Key Points

• The Census of India defines an area as a town based on specific socio-economic and demographic criteria.
• The criteria do not include the condition of “more than 75% of the population engaged in the primary sector”, as this characteristic is typically associated with rural areas, not urban settlements.
• Primary sector activities, such as agriculture, forestry, and fishing, dominate rural regions, distinguishing them from towns or urban centers.
• Towns, as per the Census, are identified based on a mix of criteria like population size, density, and administrative framework, rather than the occupational structure of the population.
• This distinction ensures a clear differentiation between urban and rural areas for planning, administration, and governance purposes.

 Additional Information

• Presence of municipality, corporation, etc.
  • The presence of an urban local body, such as a municipality or corporation, is a key administrative criterion for defining a town.
  • These bodies are responsible for the governance and development of urban areas, including infrastructure, sanitation, and public services.
• Population density of 400 persons per km²
  • A minimum population density of 400 persons per km² is one of the demographic indicators used to define urban areas in India.
  • This density threshold ensures that the area has sufficient concentration of population to qualify as a town.
• Population size of more than 5,000 persons
  • A population size exceeding 5,000 persons is a fundamental criterion for identifying towns as per the Census of India.
  • This ensures that only areas with a significant population concentration are categorized as urban centers.